The living legend Mark Knight was awarded the Icon Award at the 2024 Electronic Dance Music Awards (EDMAs). Knight is the founder of Toolroom Records, which has been influencing the dance music scene for the past 20 years. His work often incorporates elements of classic house music with modern influences, producing tracks that have become well known in the genre. Knight's collaboration with the EDMAs highlights his long-standing contribution to electronic dance music. Through Toolroom Records, he has supported the growth of many artists in the industry. The EDMAs, recognized for honoring the pinnacle of achievement in electronic dance music, have absolutely given their credit to the right category in this case.
The EDMAs are known for allowing fans to vote for the winners, highlighting the importance of fans being the driving force in how the award was decided in Mark Knight's case. This year's EDMA's in Miami featured DJs like Martin Garrix and Armin van Buuren, and so many other A-list names, demonstrating the event's prominence and overall influence in the electronic music community.
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During his career, which spans more than three decades, Knight has been a key influencer in house and techno. Toolroom Records, under his leadership, marked Beatport's highest-selling label of 2023 – an incredible feat to say the least. Knight's discography includes notable tracks such as “Man with the Red Face” and “Second Story”, which are beautiful releases and easily recognized in the dance music culture.
Knight also focuses on nurturing new talent through the Toolroom Academy and his international reputation as a DJ is well established and not slowing down anytime soon. His latest project, Fool's Paradise, aims to promote quality house music and bring an overall different edge to the scene. The Icon Award, one of the most important awards of the entire ceremony, at the EDMAs, serves to recognize Knight's long-term impact on EDM, affirming his role in shaping the industry. With that being said, we couldn't help but chat with Mark Knight about EDMA, his career and more. Watch the full exclusive interview directly below.
How does it feel to win the Icon Award at this year's EDMAs, both personally and for your career?
Winning the Icon award is honestly a big deal for me. It feels like a validation of all the hard work and passion I've put into music over the years. It's great to see this effort recognized by both the industry and, most importantly, the fans. Their support has been the backbone of my journey and to receive this kind of recognition from them means the world to me.
When you think back on your electronic music journey, what moments do you think led you to win the Icon Award?
I'm not sure it's for me to say really! I am truly humbled by this. I guess there are a few key moments that really stand out. For example, the first time I heard one of my tracks played in a club and saw the audience's reaction, it was a game changer for me and with all the music I've made I keep that in mind. It took my desire to produce music that moves people. Also, of course, the launch of Toolroom Records was a pivotal decision, marking a shift from not only making music but also curating it, providing a platform for others in the scene.
With the EDMAs being big on their unique trophies and letting the fans have their say, what's your take on getting that kind of love and recognition from the fans?
Fan participation at the EDMAs, where their votes count, adds an extra layer of gratitude and connection to winning this award. It reinforces the idea that music is a shared experience and their love and recognition fuels my desire to keep pushing the boundaries of what I do.
Now that you have the Icon Award under your belt, how do you see your role or atmosphere changing in the world of electronic music?
By doing the Icon Award now, I don't see it as changing my role in the scene, but rather reinforcing my commitment to make a positive contribution, whether through my own music, supporting emerging talent or promoting the genre in innovative ways.
Over the years, you've had a bunch of big moments. What is the most epic moment or achievement for you before this award?
Frankly this is impossible. I can't distill a 30-year career into a single moment, or even a few handfuls! I think to still be here and still be recognized as a leader in the field is all I could ask for.
You have played a huge role in launching many artists with Toolroom Records. How do you mix your music with helping up-and-comers find their groove?
Balancing my music with supporting new artists through Toolroom Records is an ongoing endeavor. It's about creating a space where up-and-coming talent can thrive while staying true to my own creative process. It's a challenging but rewarding balance, focusing on nurturing the next generation while also developing myself as an artist.
After being in the game for over 30 years, how do you keep things exciting and engaging for newbies and die-hards alike?
Keeping the excitement alive in music, especially after 30 years, is about staying curious and open. It's about new sounds, technologies and collaborations, always looking for ways to innovate and inspire both newcomers to the scene and long-time fans.
Is there a game-changing decision or moment you can share that really set you on the path to where you are now?
A game changer for me was definitely deciding to dive into the music industry full time. Taking that leap, focusing on my music and starting Toolroom Records laid the foundation for everything that followed. It was a risk, but a risk that led me to where I am today.
Looking ahead, how do you envision your and Toolroom Records' influence shaping the future faces of electronic music?
Looking to the future, I hope to continue to shape the landscape of electronic music both through my own work and the artists we support at Toolroom Records. The aim is to continue to push boundaries, nurture new talent and ensure that quality music gets the platform it deserves, shaping the future of electronic music in a positive and dynamic way.
INTERVIEW: Mark Knight Talks Wins Icon Award 2024, His Electronic Music Journey, Toolroom Records + More